The Department of Human Services (DHS) today announced that the system
changes necessary to implement the pilot program that lets recipients of
the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) purchase groceries
online through participating retailers have been completed, and online
grocery purchasing is now active at approved retailers.
The pilot program currently includes three approved retailers: Amazon,
Walmart, and ShopRite. Only eligible food items normally paid for by
SNAP will be able to be purchased from these retailers online with SNAP
benefits; delivery fees, driver tips, and other associated charges may
not be paid for with SNAP benefits. Due to the expedited timeframe to
implement, this initiative does not include the ability to transact Cash
Assistance benefits using the EBT card. Therefore, individuals will
need to use another method of payment, such as a pre-paid debit card, to
cover non-allowable fees.
A fourth retailer, The Fresh Grocer, was approved by the federal
government to participate in the program, and once necessary system
changes are implemented, they too will begin accepting online SNAP
payments. Retailers that are interested in participating must contact
FNS to review the requirements to be added to the program.
Retailers that do not wish to join the pilot program can still offer
delivery or pickup flexibility options for SNAP recipients by using
mobile EBT processing equipment that would allow customers to pay with
SNAP when groceries are delivered or picked up. Farmers markets may be
able to receive this processing equipment at no cost through a grant
opportunity provided by DHS.
DHS is continuing to process applications for SNAP and encourages people
and families who need assistance to apply online at
www.compass.state.pa.us. All SNAP applications are screened for
expedited services criteria which can accelerate processing time for
those with emergency needs. Pennsylvanians who need help feeding
themselves or their family can also find and contact their local food
bank or pantry through Feeding Pennsylvania and Hunger-Free Pennsylvania
to access food resources in their community
Visit
pa.gov for a “Responding to COVID-19” guide or the Pennsylvania
Department of Health’s dedicated Coronavirus webpage for the most
up-to-date information regarding COVID-19. Guidance to DHS providers
related to COVID-19 is available here.
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